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Ames, IA, USA to Minneapolis, MN, USA from $40: 4 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Ames, United States of America
to
Minneapolis, United States of America

How to Get from Ames to Minneapolis: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

1Map provides directions to cities, towns, landmarks, attractions, and addresses worldwide, offering thousands of multi-modal routes to easily get you from point A to point B.

$40 by busBest price
346 kmDistance
3h 28m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Ames to Minneapolis with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.

Company
Jefferson Lines
Bus
Average Duration
4h  8m
Estimated price
$42-96
Recommended
Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
4h  15m
Estimated price
$40-100
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 346 km
Duration: 3h 28m

See more options

Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
3h  32m
Estimated price
$35-60
Company
Delta
Plane
Average Duration
3h  28m
Estimated price
$225-499
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Traveling From Ames to Minneapolis

The journey from Ames to Minneapolis reveals a stark contrast between Ames' cozy college town vibe and Minneapolis' vibrant urban energy, offering you the chance to experience both charm and excitement.

Best Neighborhoods in Minneapolis

Minneapolis boasts diverse neighborhoods, each offering its own vibrant charm.

Northeast Minneapolis
• Known for its thriving art scene.
• Home to numerous craft breweries.
Uptown
• Features trendy shops and cafes.
• Beautiful lakes and parks nearby.
North Loop
• Offers chic boutiques and dining options.
• Historic warehouses transformed into modern spaces.

Best Times To Visit Minneapolis's Attractions

Visiting Minneapolis at the right time can greatly enhance your experience.

Mill City Museum
Weekdays in the late morning offer fewer crowds and a relaxed tour.
Walker Art Center
Try early Saturday mornings for a quieter art exploration.
Minnehaha Falls
Visit during weekday mornings for stunning views with fewer visitors.

Minneapolis Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Minneapolis experiences a humid continental climate with four distinct seasons, featuring warm summers and cold winters. The best times to visit are during spring and fall, as milder temperatures and beautiful scenery enhance your travel experience.

Dining Recommendation in Minneapolis

One must-try experience in Minneapolis is the Juicy Lucy, a cheese-stuffed burger that showcases the city's love for bold flavors and creativity in casual dining. Unlike the traditional comfort foods often found in Ames, this dish reflects Minneapolis' vibrant culinary scene, where local ingredients and inventive twists come together to create a memorable meal.

Ames - Minneapolis operators

Explore transport companies operating between Ames and Minneapolis, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+1-858-800-8898
Website
https://jeffersonlines.com

Bus from Ames, IA to Mall of America - Bloomington, MN

Average Duration
4h 8m
Estimated price
$42-96

Bus from Ames, IA to Minneapolis

Average Duration
4h 15m
Estimated price
$40-100
Plane Show flights
Website
https://delta.com

Plane from Des Moines (DSM) to Minneapolis (MSP)

Average Duration
1h 14m
Estimated price
$225-499

Ames to Minneapolis: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Ames and Minneapolis offers a variety of convenient options to suit your preferences, schedule, and budget. Whether you prioritize affordability, speed, or comfort, you’re sure to find the perfect way to travel without compromising on quality or convenience.

🚗 Embark on a scenic road trip from Ames to Minneapolis covering a distance of 215 miles. Experience the Midwest charm as you drive for approximately 3 hours and 32 minutes. 💰 Enjoy budget-friendly travel options with car expenses ranging from $35 to $60 for the journey from Ames to Minneapolis. Plan your trip efficiently to make the most of your driving adventure within a reasonable budget.
Average price
$35 - $60
🛫 Flying from Ames to Minneapolis is a convenient and quick journey with a direct flight available that takes just 1 hour and 14 minutes from Des Moines Airport to Minneapolis Airport on Delta. ✈️ The total travel time from Ames to Minneapolis by plane is approximately 3 hours and 28 minutes. 💸 Prices for flights between Minneapolis and Ames can range from $225 to $499, providing a range of options to suit different budgets for this short domestic trip.
Departure Point
Des Moines Airport
Arrival Point
Minneapolis Airport
🚌 Travel from quaint Ames to bustling Minneapolis conveniently by bus. With five daily departures, you can easily plan your journey to fit your schedule. The scenic ride takes approximately 4 hours and 15 minutes, offering a comfortable and affordable way to reach your destination. 🚌 Ticket prices for the Ames to Minneapolis bus route range from $40 to $100, providing flexibility for budget-conscious travelers. Whether you're heading to Minneapolis for business or pleasure, this bus journey offers a stress-free and cost-effective transportation option. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride as you travel through the heartland from Ames to Minneapolis.
Departure Point
Ames, IA station
Arrival Point
Minneapolis station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Book your bus ticket in advance through Jefferson Lines or other operators like Burlington Trailways to secure the best prices and avoid sold-out services on busy travel days; check their websites at jeffersonlines.com and burlingtontrailways.com
• During your bus ride, take advantage of the scenic views along the route—especially as you approach the Minnesota state line, where the landscape becomes more wooded and vibrant; consider downloading a couple of podcasts or an audiobook to make the journey enjoyable.
• Upon arrival at the Minneapolis bus station, familiarize yourself with the layout by visiting the station's website at metrotransit.org for maps and connections; there are several local transit options available, and knowing where to catch a bus or train will help streamline your transition into the city.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Ames to Minneapolis.

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The distance between Ames and Minneapolis is approximately 205 miles by road. The typical travel time by car is around 3 hours and 32 minutes. If you prefer taking a bus, it takes approximately 4 hours and 15 minutes to reach Minneapolis from Ames. Alternatively, you can opt for a quicker mode of transportation like flying, which takes around 3 hours and 25 minutes.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Ames to Minneapolis is to drive, as it is relatively inexpensive and takes approximately 3 hours and 32 minutes. However, if time is of the essence, the quickest option would be to fly, with a travel time of around 3 hours and 25 minutes. It is important to consider both the cost and time factors when deciding on the best mode of transportation for your trip.
The prices of a bus trip from Ames to Minneapolis can range from $40 to $100. The exact price will depend on various factors such as the day and time of travel, the bus company, and any discounts or promotions available. It is always a good idea to check with different bus operators to get the best possible price for your journey.
To travel from Ames to Minneapolis without using public transportation, you can drive the distance which is approximately 215 miles. The drive usually takes around 3 hours and 32 minutes, depending on the traffic conditions. The price to rent a car and travel from Ames to Minneapolis can range from $35 to $60, depending on the rental rates and any additional fees.
To travel from Ames to Minneapolis without a car, your best option is to take a bus via Mall of America - Bloomington. This route takes approximately 4 hours and 8 minutes and fares range from $40 to $100. The bus provides a convenient and affordable mode of transportation for this journey.
Yes, there is a direct link between Ames and Minneapolis through bus services operated by Jefferson Lines. The buses depart from Ames station and arrive at Minneapolis station. There are five daily departures and the journey takes approximately 4 hours and 15 minutes.
The flight between Ames and Minneapolis typically takes around 1 hour and 11 minutes. The cost of the flight can range from $215 to $499, depending on the airline and the time of booking. It is recommended to compare prices from different airlines and book in advance to get the best deal.
There are plenty of accommodation options near Minneapolis. There are over 458 hotels available in the area with prices starting at $45. Whether you prefer luxury hotels, budget-friendly options, or cozy bed and breakfasts, there is something to suit every traveler's needs. Some popular areas to consider for your stay include downtown Minneapolis, near the Mall of America, or in the vibrant neighborhoods surrounding the city.

Trips to Minneapolis